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Which of the following would cause an increase in the amount of exhaled carbon dioxide?

A. Excessive ventilation
B. Anaerobic metabolism
C. Increased cardiac output
D. Cardiopulmonary arrest

Answer :

Excessive ventilation would cause an increase in the amount of exhaled carbon dioxide. So the correct option is a.

When an individual exhales, they release carbon dioxide (CO2) that has been produced as a byproduct of cellular metabolism. The rate of CO2 exhalation is influenced by various factors. In the given options, excessive ventilation stands out as the one that would result in an increase in exhaled carbon dioxide.

Excessive ventilation, also known as hyperventilation, refers to an increased rate and depth of breathing. When someone hyperventilates, they breathe at a faster and deeper pace than required to maintain normal levels of oxygen and CO2 in the body. This leads to the elimination of more CO2 than is being produced, causing a decrease in the concentration of CO2 in the blood. Consequently, the body responds by increasing the amount of CO2 exhaled, attempting to restore balance. Therefore, excessive ventilation leads to an increase in the amount of exhaled carbon dioxide.

Excessive ventilation, or hyperventilation, is a condition characterized by rapid and deep breathing that exceeds the body's metabolic demands for oxygen. Hyperventilation can be caused by various factors such as anxiety, respiratory disorders, or voluntary over-breathing.

During hyperventilation, the increased respiratory rate results in the elimination of more carbon dioxide (CO2) from the body than is being produced by cellular metabolism. Normally, CO2 acts as a regulator of breathing by stimulating the respiratory centers in the brain. When there is a decrease in the concentration of CO2 in the blood due to excessive ventilation, it disrupts the balance and triggers compensatory mechanisms.

To restore equilibrium, the body responds by increasing the amount of CO2 exhaled. This is achieved by stimulating an increase in respiratory drive, leading to deeper and more frequent breaths. The increased exhalation of CO2 helps to maintain a proper balance of gases in the bloodstream. Consequently, hyperventilation results in an increased amount of exhaled carbon dioxide.

It is important to note that while hyperventilation may temporarily increase the amount of exhaled carbon dioxide, it is not a sustainable or healthy state. Hyperventilation can lead to respiratory alkalosis, which is a disturbance in the body's acid-base balance. It is advisable to address the underlying cause of hyperventilation and seek medical attention if experiencing prolonged or recurrent episodes.

To know more about cellular metabolism.

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